Xiaomi phones getting 4x better NFC with new tech

Xiaomi devices are about to receive a significant NFC (Near Field Communication) upgrade, courtesy of the newly announced NFC Release 15. This isn’t just a minor tweak. We’re looking at a fourfold increase in NFC range, taking it from a finicky 0.5 cm to a much more practical 2 cm. That means less time wasted lining up devices and more reliable contactless experiences—something every business and consumer can appreciate.

What’s Changing with NFC?

Currently, NFC requires almost pinpoint accuracy. With the new standard, devices will connect faster and with less hassle. Imagine your staff or customers simply tapping their phones near payment terminals or smart entry locks, with a much higher success rate. This range increase isn’t just a convenience—it’s a step forward in efficiency.

Industry-Wide Commitment

The NFC Forum—backed by tech giants like Apple, Google, Sony, and Xiaomi—has committed to rolling out this upgrade across the board. When these companies collaborate, industry adoption follows. You can expect a consistent, unified experience for users and businesses, regardless of which ecosystem you operate in.

Business-Driven Use Cases

Here’s where things get interesting for your operations:

Streamlined wireless charging: Devices will connect more easily, reducing customer friction at charging stations.
Smart home and smart appliance integration: Think seamless device pairing and smarter inventory or asset management.
Wearable and device connectivity: Faster, more reliable syncing for company-issued wearables or employee devices.
Digital key functionality: Secure, convenient access control for offices, hotels, or vehicles.

Supporting Product Lifecycle Transparency

NFC Release 15 also supports Digital Product Passports. For manufacturers and retailers, this means the ability to embed product details directly into devices, aiding in sustainability tracking, warranty management, and regulatory compliance. It’s a step toward full lifecycle visibility—something increasingly important in today’s ESG-focused landscape.

Implementation Timeline

Right now, the technical specs are available for NFC Forum members. Public certification and consumer device rollouts are expected starting in fall 2025. For Xiaomi device users and business partners, this is the timeline to watch for integration into new hardware.

In the meantime, Xiaomi recommends its MemeOS Enhancer app, available on the Play Store, for optimizing current NFC features.

Source: NFC Forum